NBA Trade Rumors: Where Might LaMarcus Aldridge Land?

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Oct 16, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Paul Millsap (4) shoots the ball against the Orlando Magic during the second half at Amway Center. The Hawks won 105-98. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Atlanta Hawks

How hungry are the Atlanta Hawks to land a big name like LaMarcus Aldridge? That question would be answered based on whether or not Mike Budenholzer has interest in trading starting power forward Paul Millsap—the centerpiece of many rumors in 2016—for Aldridge.

If Atlanta is indeed hungry for star power, then pairing Aldridge with Dwight Howard would certainly achieve that goal.

One could make a case that Aldridge and Howard can’t lead Atlanta to a title, but can Millsap and Howard? I’m cautiously optimistic about their chances, but both are on the wrong side of 30, meaning both have limited windows.

Aldridge is 31 years of age, but he and Howard are household names who could make Atlanta a high-profile team that sells tickets and attracts free agency discussions. That may be enough for the Hawks’ ownership and executives, whether it should be or not.

Millsap, of course, is one of the most versatile players in the NBA—the type of player whom Gregg Popovich could work wonders with.

While I prefer Millsap and Howard, there’s no denying that Atlanta would have two All-NBA players with Aldridge and Howard on the roster.

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